Mac Adapters, Dongles, and Docks

Written by Nathaniel Strauss

Last published at: June 5th, 2023

Newer MacBook Air models (2018 and later) only support USB C connections (in addition to a standard headphone jack).

In order to avoid staff purchase of off-brand or untested dongles and peripherals, we will be maintaining and occasionally updating this page to reflect approved adapters. USB C accessories should be approved through technology through a help desk ticket. Even if an item is being purchased from the approved list, please check with tech first as it may be an item that we have in stock. Technology has taken the time and already spent the money to test a variety of these items and to produce a list of the most reliable and cost-effective options that we have found. If you would like tech to consider another option, please let us know through a help desk ticket and we will follow up with you. Using building, departmental, or other funds to acquire similar products that are not on this list not only negates the work we have already done to produce it, but also creates variations in our environment that make it more difficult to support.


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2020 M1 MacBook Air

The 2020 M1 MacBook Air model only supports one external monitor, even with a dock. If you need two or more monitors, email the help desk and tech will recommend an alternate set up depending on your situation.

Cables and Dongles

Tech will cover the cost of one multi-port adapter or one USB C to A converter for staff. Afterward the building will be charged back.

Input Output Device Brand Vendor Price
USB C Ethernet Network uni Amazon $20.00
USB C HDMI Monitor
Projector
TV
uni Amazon $20.00
USB C Magsafe Charger Magsafe Charger Answin

Option 1

Option 2

$27.00
USB C Multi-port out (VGA, HDMI, USB-A 3.0) Monitor
Projector
TV
GIKERSY Amazon $30.00
USB C USB A

SMART Board
USB drive
All other USB A accessories

Anker Amazon $5 each
USB C VGA Monitor
Projector
TV
uni Amazon $14.00

Docks

A dock is required when multi-monitor setups are requested. Multi-monitor set ups using a dock also require a USB-C to VGA (or HDMI) adapter, DisplayPort cable, or other cable depending on the monitor. The total cost includes those parts. Most installs with dock, adapters, and adapters will cost around $350. Monitors are not included.

Input

Output

Brand

Model

Vendor

Price

USB C 5 USB-A, 3 USB-C, (one may be needed for monitor) SD Card, DisplayPort, Ethernet, headphone jack, microphone jack
CalDigit TS3 Plus Thunderbolt 3 Dock Amazon $310.00

Notes

  • AirPlay is the preferred and supported way to connect to projectors, TVs, and other audiovisual equipment.
  • Bluetooth accessories are preferred for items such as external keyboards, mice, presentation clickers, and so on.
  • Tech will cover the cost of one multi-port adapter or one USB C to A converter for staff. Afterward the building will be charged back.
  • Dock and multi-monitor set ups will be charged back to the building in accordance with our Technology Budget Responsibility guidelines.